Setback for Bayern! Palhinha turns down a top offer from Saudi Arabia | OneFootball

FC Bayern continues to work on a sale of João Palhinha. Although several clubs have shown interest, finding a solution remains difficult. Now, the Portuguese player is said to have received a lucrative offer from Saudi Arabia—an option that is apparently out of the question for him.

João Palhinha’s future remains one of the unresolved transfer issues at FC Bayern. The 30-year-old no longer plays a central role in the Munich club’s plans and is expected to leave the club this summer if possible.

Benfica remains a concrete suitor. The Portuguese record champions are in talks with both the player and FC Bayern. However, an agreement is not yet in sight.

The sticking point remains the transfer fee. According to reports from Portugal, FC Bayern is demanding around 25 million euros for the defensive midfielder. Benfica, however, is currently not willing to pay that amount up front.

As a result, various options have recently been discussed, including a loan with an obligation to buy. Should a permanent transfer take place this summer, Munich would likely have to lower its asking price somewhat.

Palhinha apparently rejects a move to Saudi Arabia

Photo: Getty Images

As reported by the Portuguese website Mais Futebol, Palhinha has since received an inquiry from Saudi Arabia. According to the report, it is a financially extremely attractive offer from the Saudi Pro League.

However, the Portuguese national team player reportedly does not intend to pursue this option. According to the report, sporting and personal reasons are the main factors at play. Palhinha wants to continue his career at the highest European level and does not consider the quality of play in Saudi Arabia to be on par with that in Europe.

In addition, proximity to his family is reportedly important to him. A move to Benfica in Lisbon would come much closer to fulfilling this wish than a stint in the Middle East.

In addition to Benfica, Juventus and AC Milan are still being mentioned as potential suitors. Bayern Munich still hopes to find a solution soon. In addition to a potential transfer fee, the record champions would also save on the Portuguese player’s hefty salary by selling him.